KOTA KINABALU: A permanent disaster relief centre will be built in Bongawan under Sabah's Papar district in view of regular floods in the area, says Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
He said the location will be selected after a meeting between the National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) and the State Secretary, as well as its district officer.
He said the proposed relief centre could also be used for recreational and community activities in non-disaster seasons.
ALSO READ: Floods: PM heading to Sabah on Sept 19 to check on situation
“So there would be amenities such as sinks, bathrooms and a cooking area among other facilities," he said after visiting displaced landslide victims in Kg Mook, Papar, on Thursday (Sept 18).
He said such relief centres are also being considered for other districts, but the location and number will depend on Nadma's allocation from the Finance Ministry.
Apart from permanent relief centres, there have also been calls for the government to provide houses for the victims worst hit by floods and landslides.
Ahmad Zahid said further discussions will be held to address these requests.
He also said the state and federal governments have been working with Sabah's Mineral and Geoscience Department to advise those living in landslide-prone areas on the right precautionary steps to take.
ALSO READ: Sabah's east coast on alert for strong winds, Zahid urges preparedness
He also conveyed his sympathies and condolences to those who lost their loved ones and homes in the disaster earlier this week.
“We also thank all rescuers and volunteers from the various agencies and non-governmental organisations for their swift and efficient response in aiding victims
“We should take this as a template for future rescue and emergency rescue initiatives,” he added.
